Celtic’s biggest problem since the arrival of Ange Postecoglou has been dealing with injuries. Many fans will remember how bad things got in the first half of the previous campaign and players were constantly being played out of position due to necessity. And while the squad has a lot more depth now, injuries still remain a major problem for the Hoops.
We saw the Hoops struggle at St Mirren with the centre-back pairing of Moritz Jenz and Stephen Welsh. There is a possibility that Postecoglou will have to stick with the duo though as both Carl Starfelt and Cameron Carter-Vickers are carrying injuries.
During the recent international break, there is an injury concern surrounding Giorgos Giakoumakis as well and now, it looks like another forward’s name has been added to that list.
As reported by the Daily Record, Daizen Maeda is an injury doubt for Japan’s upcoming game with Ecuador after picking up a knock in the win over USA. As reported by JFA, he felt a pain in his right leg, postponed practice and returned to the hotel.
Another Celtic star picks up injury while on international duty
While Maeda has struggled for form this season in front of goal, this is bad news for Celtic nonetheless.
They are quickly seeing their options reduced all over the pitch and might have to rely on the same players during such a tight schedule, which increases the risk of further injuries.
It goes without saying that the situation is far from ideal and one would be hoping that Maeda has not picked up any serious issue. It remains to be seen how the situation transpires from here.
There is no doubt that Postecoglou will have been left sweating though and this international break has not been kind to the Hoops to be very honest.